Frank James Nibarger Sr. was born July 27, 1951, to James and Lela Nibarger. Frank passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 12.
Frank was a lifelong resident of Evanston who loved his neighborhood and community. Frank was a graduate of Evanston High School and went to the University of Wyoming to study engineering. On Sept. 9, 1972, Frank married Anita Searcy. In their time together, Frank Jr. and Stephanie were born. Frank and Anita later divorced.
Frank’s passion for life led him on numerous adventures — from taking his wet bikes to Bear Lake or his Sand Rail (dune buggy) to the dunes. Frank never stayed still. He palled around in the Uintas cutting wood, camping and picnicking for more years than we can count. We watched out for each other through the years, and he did so much for his little city block that he loved so much. He was always there to lend a helping hand.
Frank worked for FMC as an underground mine foreman, but his passion for painting would be found at Ellingford Bros., where he spent the majority of his time. After retirement, Frank would spend his time on his model trains, RC boats, RC cars, and drones with his dogs by his side.
Frank is survived by his son, Frank Jr., of Florida; daughter and son-in-law, Stephanie and Christopher Dean of Evanston; sister and brother-in-law Judy and Mike Scheuerman of Oregon; grandchildren Quinten Nibarger, Madison Biebinger and Davin Dean; great-granddaughters, Lilly and Violet. Frank is survived by his dogs, the loves of his life, Boomer, Ruff, Diamond and Debbie.
Frank Sr. is preceded in death by his father, James; mother, Lela; brothers, Ray and Roy Bennett; granddaughter, Kirsten Dean; and great-grandson, Jaxton Dean.
Frank’s wishes were to be cremated.
Frank, you have left a gaping hole in all of our hearts.
A celebration of his life was held at 3 p.m. on Monday, July 17, at the Evanston Bear Ponds, where people shared their wild stories and wonderful memories of Frank.
